Quick Links

Report Downloads

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

The West Kentucky Advantage

The West Kentucky Megasite (WKM) is well-positioned for alternative energy development, with particular strengths in biomass and coal-related technologies.

The Kentucky Economic Development and Finance Authority provides tax incentives to construct, retrofit, or upgrade an alternative fuel production or gasification facility that uses coal or biomass as a feedstock.

Tax credits are also available for qualified biodiesel producers or blenders, as well as qualified ethanol producers.

The total biomass available in the counties surrounding the WKM is estimated at nearly 2 million tonnes/year, among the largest feedstock availability in the state.

Coal blending facilities are present in the region (at Kentucky Dam and Paducah) and substantial coal shipments occur on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers which are within 20 miles of the site.

The region has a long history of working in heavy manufacturing, chemical production, and nuclear energy, as well as an agricultural tradition.

KENTUCKY SITE BANK EVALUATION

Highlights from the evaluation of the WKM for alternative energy uses

Electric

Significant substation located approx. 3 miles from WKM. Offers the potential to extend utilities (161 kV or 138 kV line) and serve as the transmission point for electricity generated on site.

Natural Gas

Access to 8-inch ATMOS line is available within 6,000 feet of the site.

(1) Location quotients (LQs) represent a ratio of employment relative to the US. LQs greater than or equal to 1.25 suggest a specialization.

ABOUT

This profile covers one of three priority industry targets identified by Austin-based TIP Strategies as a fit for the WKM based on an analysis of the region's strengths.

Information on this page was provided in part from TIP STRATEGIES, INC. (TIP) and Wadley Donovan GrowthTech, LLC. TIP is a privately held Austin-based economic development consulting firm which assisted West Kentucky Megasite with analysis of the regional workforce and identification of potential target industry opportunities. For their complete report, click on the TIP Workforce Analysis Link in the right sidebar. A complete current demographic profile complied by Wadley Donovan GrowthTech, LLC is also available in the right sidebar.